Vallières: Holiday apartments and holiday homes

Vallières combines historical landmarks with viewpoints, paths through the Albanais countryside and activities involving animals. Notable destinations include the Pont Coppet, the Chavanne site, the Défilé du Val de Fier and the ruins of Saint-André.

Culture

The Pont Coppet was built in 1626 and has been classified as a historic monument since 4 November 2015. From the entrance to Vallières, it can be reached on foot and by bicycle via a stone path.

The ruins of the Saint-André chapel or church are also among the historic destinations. They are believed to be the remains of a sanctuary built around 450 AD by monks from Saint-Claude. The Saint-André sanctuary was rebuilt by Benedictines in the 12th century.

Landscape

The Croix de Chavanne viewpoint offers views of the Albanais plain, the Grand Colombier, the Bauges Massif and the Fier River. The Chavanne site is easily accessible via a 15-minute walk from the village of Chavanne in the Val de Fier.

The Défilé du Val de Fier is a 5 km-long scenic road connecting the Albanais with the Haut-Rhône area. The Défilé overlooks the Fier River. The hike “Les Balcons de la Montagne des Princes” also provides access to numerous viewpoints; it offers views of the Albanais plain, the Défilé du Val de Fier and the surrounding mountain ranges.

Cycling

The “Circuit 2 – Les Vergers” mountain bike loop starts in Vallières-sur-Fier. It is 11 km long, has 170 metres of ascent, takes about one hour and is rated very easy.

The route runs mainly along paths beside the orchards typical of the Albanais. Near the Fier, the loop also includes a 150 m detour to the Pont Coppet. Along the way, you come close to the company Thomas Le Prince, which specialises in processing fruit; its products are available at a direct-sales shop.

Activities

Les Paturettes offers guided tours during which visitors learn more about the needs of farm animals, get close to them and care for them. During school holidays, morning activities are available for children aged 4 to 12, where they learn how to care for, feed and brush animals. Animal-assisted activities for children and adults are also available on request.

Those considering Vallières as a destination may wish to rent a holiday apartment.

Other places: Les Carroz-D'arâches, Verchaix, Plateau Dʼassy, Annecy-Le-Vieux, Archamps, La Rivière-Enverse, Seynod, Bernex

To the higher-level travel overview: Haute-Savoie.